Ferrari to tweak engine design

Ferrari has been given approval by the FIA to modify its engine design in time for the Spanish Grand Prix this weekend.

The team applied to the FIA for special permission to make the modifications following reliability problems during the first few races of the season.

Fernando Alonso has suffered from two engine failures that have left his championship hopes faltering and his engine supply depleted.

Ferrari began investigating the causes of its engine issues after the Chinese Grand Prix; it found that there was an intrinsic problem with the engine’s design, thought to be related to air consumption and leaking pneumatic valves.

A statement by Ferrari said that it intends “to make some changes within the framework of the current engine regulations” that will be fitted to the engines to be used in Spain.

Ferrari’s version of the innovative F-Duct airflow system will also be fitted to both drivers' cars in time for the first practice session this weekend, although the results of Friday’s sessions will decide whether or not the system remains on the cars for qualifying and the race.

I'm sure the new parts will improve reliability, the fact they'll give some extra power too, is purely coincidental. Honest, no, ask Luca, he'll tell you... In fact it would be ridiculous to suggest such a thing, it's purely in the minds of the journalists. It would be as unlikely as using subliminal Marlboro logo's long after the tobacco advertising ban. And they'd never do that...

- rolls eyes -
As usual, people without the full story start ranting against Ferrari... Did any of you complain when Renault was allowed to make performance and reliability changes to its engines?
Yes, Ferrari had the same problem with its engines last year. The problem is to do with air leakages from the pneumatic valve systems [apparently], and they would simply top up the pneumatic system during the pitstops. However, this year there are fewer stops and they are much shorter, which means they can't do that.
All teams are entitled to ask the FIA to make changes to their engines for reliability purposes. As far as I know, Mercedes have not asked to make any changes to their engines. Renault did, to a far greater degree than Ferrari have, and now Ferrari have been granted permission as well. The FIA has detailed access to exactly what is proposed to be changed, and as far as I know, the other teams are allowed to veto it if they disagree.